Home Birth for first time ?

[Razzle88]

Hi there,

I am exploring having a home birth, I just wondered if anyone had any good resources/books they could recommend? This is my first so thinking of all the options... I mainly like the idea of being in my own space but realise that complications can occur and it is best to be open minded to all scenarios etc... going to ask my midwife for more info next week too :) .... completely clueless right now really!! Thanks in advance x

I read 2 books : Ina May's guide to childbirth by Ina May Gaskin and Childbirth without fear by Grantly Dick-Read. I had 2 babies in hospital which I found stressful, had drips and drugs etc. Then 3rd baby at home at age 42. Was so different, no complications, only gas and air used. Quick Labour. Had baby, went to bed, got up next morning and went to the supermarket for baby clothes! if i wasn't so old I'd love another home birth.

As in I'm 50 now so no more babies for me!

I found the Positive Birth Book to be quite a good read. It covers both hospital and home birth and gives lots of detail about what to expect and what sort of things to think about when making a decision.

There is a higher risk of having to transfer into hospital for a first baby so you might want to consider how you would feel in that situation and how far you are from the hospital.

Definitely have a chat with your midwife - they can give you lots of advice.

I had my first at home...then two more after that. Majority of first time mums transfer for pain relief so its worth looking into hypnobirthing. Ina May Gaskin and Positive Birth books are a great read.